JERK Festival OFFICIAL GUIDE
2018
Publix and Grace Jamaican Jerk Fest
An 11-year
Friendship Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival (JJF), one of South Florida’s unique, island-food and music celebrations, partners with one of South Florida’s premium supermarket chains for a family and community celebration. Things are bound to taste good. So, what's the secret between Publix Supermarkets and Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival's, 11-year friendship? “When South Florida's everyday food supplier loves Jerk, we love Jerk too!” Says, JJF Director June Minto, “Publix Supermarkets has grown with this festival through the years, and in the last three particularly, they have become involved in the marketing and publicity as well.”
“Publix is so much more than a Sponsor. Our logos and graphics are in stores, on their website; they are involved in the ticket sales, the live entertainment, the Culinary Pavilion and the Award Ceremony. This effort on their behalf is special and significant.” – June Minto, JFF Director Aside from the weekly road shows across South Florida this month (see schedule on our Facebook Page and Website) leading up to the event, the community has also responded to their involvement, with attendance and interest. With less than 4 weeks to go Publix has been starteding the celebration early with a number of in-store promotions. Several Publix stores in Miami-Dade and Broward will featured giveaways and special prices on select Grace food items! Local Chefs (any names??) will be who were also on location sampling various recipes prepared with Jamaican-inspired ingredients such as Grace Jamaican Jerk Seasoning and Grace Classic Coconut Milk to tantalized shoppers' taste buds. The first is tomorrow, October 11, at River Run Shopping Center in Miramar, 4 – 6 pm.
Seasoned with Sentiment This year, JJF and Publix unveil a special award for our late, dear friend Local 10's Todd Tongen, who left us this year. We continue with our annual Celebrity Chef's Competition in the Culinary Pavilion in his honor. As a three-time Publix Celebrity Cook-off winner, Todd brought his on-air personality as well as personal love for the festival, the food and the people. We salute him and our friendship with Publix Supermarkets this year, through this joint recognition. Jerk Fest, which promises to be a sentimental blend of heart and soul, and a whole lot of Jerk!
Miramar The Marvelous
Jamaican Jerk Fest FEELS You
One look at the venue, and you can tell that you are in for something EPIC! This will be us. We will be sitting under that sunset, holding a plate of Jerk shrimp or chicken in one hand, a cold adult beverage in the other, the sweet sounds of island music, or the pulsating rhythms of reggae and soca streams over the green low-rolling slopes and lakes of Miramar Regional Park. As the sun goes down, the volume of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Fest goes up with sizzling performances. turns its gaze on the night-time portion of the program.
Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater is beautiful; and its ours for the day and night of Nov. 10, 2019, when we cook and kaiso, and reggae and rum our way through countless hours of food and fun at the 18th Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in South Florida. The $7.4 million outdoor entertainment destination — planned since 2013 — opened for its first event on July 4th 2017, and its been one sophisticated and celebratory event after another, ever since. Located at 16801 Miramar Parkway, this pristine, nature-inspired event space, is the new home of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival offering a canopy to protect guests from the elements as well as a grassy promenade, lakes and airconditioned restrooms. (we don't want to mention capacity) A well lighted parking area can accommodate over 2,500 cars with paved walkways leading to the festival area. High-tech sound, wi-fi and acoustic advancements make up the structural back-drop for the line-up of star power entertainment on stage that day, and night. Can you feel the tingle? The excitement? Can you taste the jerk? Can you hear the music? This new vibe offered to us by The Marvelous Miramar Regional Park, incorporates sophistication and rootsy pizzazz to an already favorite festival, delivering an awesome experience for festival fans. This ain't no joke!
More Ways To Savor
The Island FLAVOR
Organizers of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival are cooking up a delectable day of family fun, fantastic food, and non-stop entertainment for thousands of attendees who will descend on Miramar Regional Park, Miramar on Sunday, November 10. Festivalgoers will have a chance to immerse themselves in authentic Caribbean culture, sample the bold and spicy cuisine, experience topnotch performances, and so much more.
Eddy Edwards, the festival's CEO, is looking forward to their 18th annual installment and is inviting everyone to come out and “savor the island flavor” at South Florida's premier Caribbean food event. “We are excited about the improvements and additions to this year's festival because our goal is always to deliver an enjoyable and satisfying patron experience and to exceed all expectations,” he says. With over 25 food vendors serving up flavorful favorites like jerk pork and jerk chicken, mouthwatering delicacies such as jerk conch and jerk lobster, and the famous jerk ice cream, there'll be something on the menu to please every palate at this event, which has become a prominent fixture in South Florida's festival landscape. Fans will come for their favorite festival features like the Publix Culinary Pavilion, where cooking chops are tested in fierce
competitions and top chefs offer exciting cooking demos; the Western Union Stage, which showcases Caribbean culture through performance art; and the Main Stage, which will this year showcase top-tier gospel artists earlier in the day, and reggae legends including Christopher Martin and Third World who will bring the night to a close with electrifying performances. In addition to old favorites, patrons can expect to enjoy some new attractions such as a farmer's market, where they can purchase fresh, authentic produce from Jamaica! Event organizers partnered with Farm Up to offer this feature and proceeds will go to farmers on the island. Another exciting component will be a culinary museum, where you can learn about the famous jerk—how it all started and how it has evolved over time. Of course, the kids are always covered with exciting rides and fun things to do in the Kidz Zone. Millennials and the young-at-heart can get their adrenaline going at the Party Pavilion Hot Zone, which will feature top DJs such as Delano and Jazzy T from the worldfamous Renaissance Disco, spinning the latest hits as well as classic reggae, dancehall, and soca. For those looking to indulge in a more exclusive experience, VIP Vibe offers the best of everything—including a prime viewing area in front of the main stage, elegant décor, delectable gourmet tapas, unlimited drinks, a full bar, and VIP parking. Edwards is encouraging everyone to “get your tickets early and come out and enjoy this cultural and culinary feast; bring your friends, neighbors, and your entire family.” For general admission, kids 10 and younger are free!
We are excited about the improvements and additions to this year's festival because our goal is always to deliver an enjoyable and satisfying patron experience and to exceed all expectations. Eddy Edwards CEO, Jamaica Jerk Festival
JERK
RECIPE CORNER Jerk-Spiced Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower and Chickpeas Ingredients Ÿ 1 whole dried habanero chile, stemmed and crushed Ÿ 1 tablespoon whole allspice berries Ÿ 1 tablespoon coriander seeds Ÿ 1 tablespoon black peppercorns Ÿ 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves Ÿ 1 tablespoon dried thyme Ÿ 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Ÿ 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg Ÿ 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil Ÿ One 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and patted dry Ÿ 1 pound small brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise Ÿ 4 cups cauliower orets (from 1 head) Ÿ Salt Step 1 Preheat the oven to 425°. In a medium skillet, combine the habanero, allspice, coriander, peppercorns and cloves and toast over low heat, shaking the pan, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let cool, then transfer to a spice grinder. Add the thyme, ginger and nutmeg and grind to a powder. Step 2 Heat a roasting pan over high heat. Add the oil and chickpeas and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5 minutes. Add the brussels sprouts and cauliower, season with salt and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer the pan to the oven and roast the vegetables for about 15 minutes, until tender. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the spice mixture and serve right away. Make Ahead The spice blend can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
The
VIP Experience There's a lot to enjoy at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival which takes place on November 11 at Miramar Regional Park in Miramar. Patrons may want to saunter to the VIP area where an extra treat awaits. In addition to exquisite decor and plush seating, there will be a variety of delectable gourmet tapas-style fare, waiter service, complimentary champagne, open bar, swag bags, exclusive parking and front-stage viewing, without leaving the VIP area. Mingle and network with celebrities while enjoying a VIP menu courtesy of Chef Patrick Adams. This all-inclusive VIP experience starts at noon and ends at 8 pm. Purchase tickets at jerkfestival.com or call 754.273.9166.
DIGICEL Using Technology To Help Communities Stay Closer We are witnesses to how digital solutions contribute to the feeling of having the world in the palm of our hands. Most of the processes that used to take months or days are now possible within seconds, and when someone moves to another country, we can be as connected as if they never changed their address.
Innovation in the digital world has escalated so much that GSMA forecasts that global smartphone penetration will reach 79% by 2025, and the firm Maximize Market Research predicts that the Global Digital Banking Platforms Market will reach US$ 6.2Bn by 2026, at an annual growth rate of 13.45%. Technology has become so important that it has permeated many aspects of our lives, from keeping us present in the lives of relatives that live miles away to considering financial technology to solve issues like serving unbanked communities and financial inclusion. All while making the world a smaller place and becoming an essential piece of international transfers. Now, we have products that aim to provide convenient, simple, and safe solutions to our communities. Services that make it easier to continue some of the activities that bring together people abroad to their family and loved ones back home. Digicel MyCash, a prepaid card that resulted from the partnership between Digicel, MasterCard, and Metropolitan Commercial Bank, launched in 2018 to transform the financial services world. The card enables customers in Florida or New York to deposit and send money to their family and loved ones in Jamaica, at the time that they can do all their regular transactions. This card does not require a bank account or credit check to sign up. The customer just needs to
provide their full name, date of birth, social security number, and address to enter the approval process and ultimately receive their card on the mail. After that, they will be able to send or receive money to and from another MyCash user in Jamaica within minutes and for a $5 flat-rate fee, use it in any location MasterCard is accepted, and purchase goods and pay for bills as long as the account has funds. Additionally, Digicel MyCash comes with a mobile app where customers can manage all of their transactions and keep track of their money spend by just touching their phone screen. However, this is not the only solution that facilitates our communities' bond. They also have available Digicel Top Up, a product where credits or minutes can be added to any Digicel prepaid mobile phone number. And Digicel Call International (DCI), a mobile pin-less application that allows users to call from the United States to anywhere in the world. “Technology has opened doors that we never imagined. We have to leverage everything that allows us to do and apply it to the important things in life: being present and close to our family and loved ones wherever we are. This is what motivates us to keep providing services and solutions, making distances feel shorter and bringing people together,” Adriana Pirela, Chief Marketing Officer, Digicel Financial Group.
The
Entertainment Throngs of food and music lovers will flock to Miramar Regional Park on Sunday, November 10 2019, to immerse themselves in the highly anticipated 18th annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival—the largest Caribbean Food Festival in the USA. Expectations are high especially among faithful fans, who have become accustomed to the excellence this event delivers, with everything from spicy jerk foods and cooking competitions to cultural presentations and electrifying entertainment. Headliners Christopher Martin, Third World and Bugle, along with the infamous Renaissance Djs, Delanoe and Jazzy T are sure to thrill patrons with a versatility of entertainment ranging from reggae, dancehall and soca, to hip hop, R&B, and more.
CHRIS MARTIN
Christopher Martin is a reggae/ dancehall singer and songwriter from St. Catherine, Jamaica. Martin won Digicel's Rising Stars in 2005 (the Jamaican version of American Idol) and is best known for the songs "Cheaters Prayer", "I'm a big deal" "Let her go", and "Is it love". After winning the Digicel Rising Stars competition, Martin participated in Digicel's Christmas promotion in 2005. His debut single "Love Is All We Need" formed part of the promotional campaign. Martin became the first Digicel Rising Stars Alumni to have a hit single on the charts in Jamaica. Shortly after, he won the Digicel Rising Stars title in 2005. Martin has performed numerous stage shows across Jamaica and was notably invited to perform at One Night with Michael Bolton and at the 2008 Air Jamaica Jazz Festival.
BUGLE Bugle who's real name is Roy Thompson was born in the parish of Portland, Jamaica. His love for dancehall and reggae music began from an early age, while he was going to primary school. This led to him started writing songs for Elephant man. In 2001 he was featured on his "Good To Go" Tour. Bugle was also featured on BET’s 106 and Park and Appearance 2002 MTV Awards in Japan. After a short stint with Shawn Scott Music Group (SSMG), he left and team up with DASECA Production Group in 2007. This led to his first hit single "What We Gonna Do". He followed it up with tracks such as Pearly Gates, Don't Blame Life, Summa Time, Anything Goes, Doh feat. Serani, Who Feel It Knows and Supremacy (The Journey)
THIRD WORLD Third World are one of the longest-lived reggae bands of all time, and one of Jamaica's most consistently popular crossover acts among international audiences. While they were long capable of authentic roots reggae, they usually preferred to mix in elements of R&B, funk, pop, and rock (and, later on, dancehall and rap). Indeed, they were regular visitors to the American and British charts during the '80s, but the best of their output was undeniably satisfying on a creative level as well.
Miss Lou
Celebrated
ON THE WESTERN UNION CULTURAL STAGE The centenary celebration of the Hon. Louise Bennett-Coverley “Miss Lou”, will take centerstage at this year's 18th annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival on Sunday, November 10, 2019. The event, which offers a feast of jerk and other Caribbean foods, authentic culture, and entertainment, has become a staple in South Florida's cultural landscape and attracts thousands of patrons.
The Western Union Cultural stage is always something special and this year is no different. Poets will vie for cash and bragging rights as they “Drop Some Lyrics” competing in a Louise Bennett-Coverley inspired poetry contest. “This is the year of Miss Lou,” stated Bridget Edwards, organizer of the cultural stage, “We wanted to highlight her works and legacy in a very special way so we pulled out all the stops.” A student and admirer of Miss Lou, Dr Sue, will perform some of her original works as well as interact with the audience in a fun and games session. Maxine Osborne, another performer who has been influenced by Miss Lou, will share stories and play ring games with the kids and adults who grew up with Miss Lou. Another student of Miss Lou and a very vocal cultural preservationist New York-based Sharon Gordon will provide entertainment along with the local children's group Drumming Fingers. Keeping the audience engaged with his comedic genius will be Western Union Cultural Stage emcee Chris “Johnny” Daley, interacting with the audience and offering prizes to lucky patrons. “This year there will be a lot of participation from the audience”, Edwards stated, “Our goal is to immerse the audience in the cultural activities and educate through games, quizzes and other fun happenings,” Edwards says. The Western Union Stage kicks off its performances at 1:00 pm and will continue until 3 p.m. with an exceptional show celebrating the culture through music, dance, comedy, spoken word, fashion, drama, and more. You never know what exciting things will happen on the Western Union Cultural Stage. Other festival activities include cooking competitions at the Publix Culinary Pavilion, and the kids will enjoy fun rides, face painting, games, and more in the Kidz Zone. Of course, you simply cannot miss what's in store for the Main Stage entertainment with contemporary gospel artist Sone, reggae artists including Third World, Chris Martin, Bugle and Honorebel, Papa Beeto, Ed Robinson and rising star Jaz Elise.
B
A Romance Made At Jerkfest Natalie and Maurice had their second date at South Florida’s Jamaican Jerk Festival in November 2018, at Markham Park in Sunrise. Today they are married and still attend the event annually; and what’s more- the Festival’s famous celebrity chef, Chef Irie, catered the food their wedding. “We interviewed multiple chefs for our wedding, and hands down, Chef Irie’s food was the winner,” says Natalie. “But it wasn’t only the food. Presentation and attention-to-detail are Chef Irie’s star qualities, and he was our man. However, the FOOD? The Food!” she says. Romance and food have always gone together like Ben and Jerry, peanut butter and jelly, curds and whey… Maurice has been a VIP Jerk Fester for years, together with his cousin, Ian Hamilton, publisher of South Florida Caribbean News, they are all about good Jerk and outdoor cooking, friendship, family, island food and music. However, a second date at a Jerk Festival is
memorable. And we love romance. Maurice remembers the festival as far back as its early days in C.B. Smith Park in Pembroke Pines, and he remembers three-time Celebrity Cook-off winner Local 10’s Todd Tongen, who is sadly is no longer with us. Sweet and savory memories intertwine with spicy seasonings and make for a good grill; and this year, as the event premiers at the marvelous Miramar’s Regional Park, it feels different, romantic, for JJF organizing committee and maybe also for Maurice and Natalie. Publix Supermarkets will present their annual Culinary Pavillion hosted by Chef Irie featuring popular chefs and celebrities who will display their culinary skills in challenges of
heated competitions. A great music line-up featuring Reggae Ambassadors Third World, Christophere Martin, Bugle, Jaz Elyze, Honorebel, DJ Wizard & TG Flexx, Jazzy T, Delano of Renaissance and many more. Look out for the weekly Promotions at Publix Supermarkets , scheduled throughout Miami-Dade and Broward now through November ninth. Stop by and taste delicious Jamaican cuisine, get fun giveaways, discover products you’ll love and get Jamaican-inspired recipes. Come visit us at select Publix locations for cooking demonstrations and samples.
Best of The Best 2020 Tickets Already Available Online Although it's over six months away, pre-ticket sales for the annual staging of Best of the Best Music Festival, one of North America's international music festivals, became available online on November 1.
The 2020 Best of the Best Festival, featuring reggae, dancehall and soca artists will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2020 in Miami. The annual festival plays a vital role in cultivating Caribbean music not just locally, but nationally, and has served as a center of innovation and a creative catalyst for Miami and the world. Although the 2020 lineup is yet to be announced, organizers of the Memorial weekend staple in South Florida, have declared that the staging will feature a major stellar star-studded program. Over the past years, Dancehall, Soca and Reggae biggest names such as Mavado, Spice, Beenie Man, Vybz Kartel (via satellite), Beres Hammond, StoneBwoy, Bunji Garlin, Fayan Lyons and many more stars have all graced the stage of the Bicentennial Park Amphitheater in downtown Miami against the backdrop iconic views of Biscayne Bay. Recognized and honored in 2018 with a proclamation by the city of Miami, the one-of-a-kind music festival has each year welcomed diverse community of record breaking crowds from all over the world, and has become the perfect getaway for music
aficionados who prefer to “experience” live Caribbean music. “It is a celebration of Caribbean heritage. It has been kind of downplayed because it has been doing well for so long. Best of the Best has earned its reputation based on the fact it's in its 13th year. This particular festival also hasn't had any negative incidents and we are very proud of that.” declared Retha Boone-Fye, program officer and director of the county's Black Affairs Advisory Board.
JERK
RECIPE CORNER tropical jerk grilled chicken with charred mango salsa verde Ingredients Ÿ 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Ÿ 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Ÿ 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated Ÿ 3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves Ÿ 1 tablespoon paprika Ÿ 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, more or less to taste Ÿ 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Ÿ 1 teaspoon all-spice Ÿ zest and juice of 1 lime Ÿ kosher salt and black pepper Lemony Mango Salsa Verde Ÿ 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil Ÿ 1 small lemon, halved and seeded Ÿ 1 shallot, halved Ÿ 1 ripe mango, sliced in 1/2 inch slices Ÿ 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Ÿ 1 fresno or jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped Ÿ 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped Ÿ 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Ÿ kosher salt Step 1 In a gallon size zip top bag, combine the chicken, olive oil, garlic, thyme, paprika, cayenne, cinnamon, all-spice, lime zest, lime juice, and a large pinch of pepper and salt. Marinate for 10 minutes. Step 2 Set your grill, pan or skillet to medium-high heat. Step 3 To make the salsa verde. In a medium bowl, toss the lemons, shallots, and half of the mango with a little olive oil. Place on the grill. Grill until slightly charred, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the grill and let cool. Finely chop the peeled lemon and shallots and add back to the bowl. Dice both the grilled and fresh mangos and add to the bowl. Add the apple cider vinegar, jalapeño, basil, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Add in the remaining olive oil. Stir to combine, taste and adjust salt as needed. Step 4 Grill the chicken for 5-8 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the grill and serve with salsa.
Things To Know Before You Go
Gates open at 10:00 am
No Re-entry for general admission ticket holders
Allowed items Lounge chairs Blankets Umbrellas (hand-held) Baby strollers Non-professional equipment Cameras without detachable lenses * Lounge and umbrella chairs are to be placed on the outskirts of the crowd as a courtesy to other spectators
Prohibited items Weapons of any kind Illegal substances (narcotics or drug paraphernalia) Alcohol (alcohol will be sold at the Festival) Glass containers Food or beverages Skateboards, scooters, or personal motorized vehicles Fireworks and Explosives Large umbrellas Pets (except service dogs) Video equipment: No recording allowed Professional camera equipment (no detachable lenses, no tripods, big zooms, or commercial use rigs) Any audio recording equipment No illegal vending permitted. No unauthorized vendors allowed. Unauthorized solicitations, handbills, sampling, give-aways.
Disclaimer All persons attending the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival do so at their own risk. No liability is assumed by Event producers, managers, promoters, sponsors, or others associated with the Event. By attending, you give the Jerk Festival the right to videotape and/or photograph any and all activities, events, and performances within the festival site, including all attendees and patrons and the right to use your photo, likeness, and voice captured on video or photography in any manner to promote the Jerk Festival. Reproductions of the Festival's name or logo are strictly prohibited. Violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Due to artist's requests, absolutely no video cameras of any kind are allowed in the Festival concert area. To Keep the Jerk Fest safe and healthy, Event ofď€ cials ask that you report any violations to the above policies to either the Jerk Festival security or any uniformed ofď€ cers on site and to assist in helping to keep the Festival grounds clean in using available receptacles.
Disability Access & Accommodations We want to make sure that all food lovers have access to the Jerk Festival experience. Special needs patrons call 305-786-3611103 or visit our website at www.JerkFestival.com Kids at Jerk Festival Coming to the Jerk Festival with a youngster in tow? Children aged 10 and under are admitted FREE if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. There is no limit on the number of kids per adult, within the discretion of the front gate staff. Heat Relief Heatstroke is not cool. Drink lots of water. Wear sunscreen. Safety & Medical We are making every effort to create a safe environment on the festival grounds, including public and private security and medical staff. If you need any assistance, seek out the medical tent, or look for a festival staff member. Lost & Found During the Festival, look for lost items at the Lost & Found booths at the Corporate Circle. After the Festival, you can inquire about lost items here. Valuables will be held for 30 days and then donated to a local charity. Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc. will not be held liable for any unclaimed items.
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New York: 178-451-3617 www.dennisshipping.com
Florida: 754-223-2348 ship@dennisshipping.com
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